What all can I put in personal items bag? (liquids, airlines, luggage)

[optimisticStar]

I am finding some cheap tickets online for few destinations in US, but the airline is charging for carry on bags while personal items bag is free.

Since I am planning to travel for 3 days over the weekend, I was wondering if I can carry 2 sets of clothes, some makeup and 1 set of jewelry in the carry on bag along with the electronics like my laptop and phone and chargers.

Am I allowed to carry items other than electronics in my personal item bag especially makeup and jewellery?

[sayulita]

As long as you can fit the personal items bag under the seat in front of you, you can pack it with whatever you want. Keeping in mind the liquids limits. Check your airline's website for those and other banned items, if any.

[hertfordshire]

The 'personal item' is not defined by what is inside, but rather by the size. For example, on Spirit:

Personal item (e.g., purse, small backpack, etc.): Dimensions must not exceed 16 x 14 x 12 inches (40 x 35 x 30 cm) including handles and wheels.

[Alaskan Mutt]

Chances are good you are looking at an airline that is known for having seating with the least amount of leg room. Cramming the largest possible personal bag under the seat is going to leave you hurting for leg room.

[sayulita]

I have a rolling bag with a handle that is made to perfectly fit under the seat ahead. I'm pretty short so it's not a big problem, but it would be for someone taller.

[hertfordshire]

Most rolling bags won't count as a "personal item" due to size.

[sayulita]

I've used it many times and have never been questioned or charged for it. It's the only thing I carry on board. Even my purse is in it.

[hertfordshire]

Originally Posted by sayulita

I've used it many times and have never been questioned or charged for it. It's the only thing I carry on board. Even my purse is in it.

But is that on airlines (like Spirit) that only allow one "personal item" for free, and charge for the rest? Or is that on the legacy carriers that allow one carry on plus a personal item?

[sayulita]

Originally Posted by hertfordshire

But is that on airlines (like Spirit) that only allow one "personal item" for free, and charge for the rest? Or is that on the legacy carriers that allow one carry on plus a personal item?

I don't know, but since my luggage fits under the seat in front, I never use the overhead compartment and that's what they are charging for.

[Ghengis]

I always cram several other soft-sided tote bags into my personal item bag and in theory can carry many time the number of personal items that anyone else can...